Satellite-based navigation systems, including Galileo, enable aircraft to follow precise flight paths independently of ground-based infrastructure. The technology supports additional approach paths without the need to add instrument landing systems (ILS), and can be used as part of a fall-back procedure in case of airborne or ground ILS equipment malfunction.
This SESAR solution defines required navigation performance (RNP) transitions to localiser performance with vertical guidance (LPV) to enhance terminal operations. SESAR supports wider use of advanced RNP to enhance terminal area operations. SESAR’s advanced approach procedures with vertical guidance (APV) include the smooth transition from RNP arrival routes into RNP approach flight paths with barometric descent guidance that then transition to the LPV approach segment with geometric descent guidance. The transitions may include radius-to-fix (RF) turns that leave the aircraft aligned with the runway as close as three nautical miles (NM) before the threshold. From that point, the satellite-based guidance allows the pilot to descend safely down to a decision height of 200 ft which is equivalent to ILS Cat I minima. Advanced APV allows increased flexibility in planning arrival paths in terminal airspace, making it possible to design procedures that control the noise impact of the airport or reduce track miles to cut fuel consumption.
Several validation exercises focused on preparing ways to introduce A-RNP transition to LPV procedures by examining the impact on both the ground and air segments. The new transitions increased predictability for controllers and pilots, while reducing track miles, saving fuel and emissions.
This solution is available for industrialisation. Enhanced terminal operations with LPV procedures are now implemented in implemented in Cyprus, Denmark
Ireland, Israel, Montenegro, Norway, Serbia, and Switzerland.
SJU references: #51/Release 4
Benefits
- Increased flexibility in the design of TMA route layouts and landing procedures, which result in fuel savings and reduced noise impact on the communities neighbouring the airport
- Increased predictability
- Improved safety
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